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Davis biding his time to build Alex squad

STEVE Davis insists there is still time to assemble a new-look squad before the big kick-off.

With their League One opener at promoted Fleetwood Town only a month away, alarm bells are starting to ring among Alex supporters.

Having seen contract rebel Max Clayton training with an unnamed club and Byron Moore join fierce rivals Port Vale among a mass exodus, it has been a frustrating summer so far.

Only new keeper and player-coach Scott Shearer has come in with Davis missing out on several top targets, including Chuks Aneke and former midfielder James Bailey.

However the boss insists things can change very quickly.

“It’s disappointing we didn't get him,” explained Davis. “Bailey was in the category of players we know would improve the squad but financially, we were blown out of the water when Doncaster came in.

“We set our sights high and undoubtedly we know we’d miss out on some. But we’ve dealt with a lack of financial muscle for a while and it’s something we just have to compete with against the bigger clubs.

“We’re trying to do the best we can for the money available, but as you get closer to the start of the season players and agents are more desperate to get fixed up.

“We know what we need and that’s why it takes so long. The longer it goes, the more the wage demands come down and that is in our favour.”

Both Harry Davis and Ryan Colclough are struggling to make that date with Fleetwood as the Alex get ready to begin their pre-season campaign.

They travel to Norton tomorrow, Friday, and neighbours Nantwich Town on Sunday.

“Everyone is fit except the two long-term injuries,” added Davis. “Both are improving steadily but they will be touch and go for the start of the season.

“They are getting there with fitness but both will miss out on game-time so it’s doubtful they will be ready for early August.”

Former Everton and Southend winger Femi Orenuga, 21, is likely to figure in one of the fixtures as he attempts to impress on trial.

Ex-skipper Dave Artell could be on the sidelines after rejoining the club, replacing outgoing Michael Jolley as Academy Operations Manager.